Dubai, UAE – Travellers at Dubai International Airport (DXB) experienced delays during what was anticipated to be the busiest weekend of the year. Authorities had advised residents to arrive at least four hours before their flights to avoid peak travel season congestion, leading many to beat check-in queues and relax in lounges despite flight delays.
Busiest Day at DXB
July 13 was projected to be the busiest day at DXB, with 286,000 travellers expected. Throughout the peak weekend from July 12-14, the airport anticipated handling around 840,000 passengers, averaging 274,000 daily.
Early Arrivals and Flight Delays
Dubai resident Mohammed Omar, heading to Dabolim Airport in Goa, India, arrived at the airport by 12 PM for a 5:40 PM flight. He received a notification about his flight’s delay while en route. “It is an inconvenience, though I got time to relax and ease last-minute travel anxiety,” said Omar.
Similarly, Mohammed Shareef, flying to Kozhikode, arrived at the airport by 9 AM for a 1 PM flight that was delayed by 90 minutes. “Reaching the airport early was beneficial for me as there was a heavy rush. Although my task in Kozhikode will have to wait until Monday, I am using the extra time to enjoy the airport’s offerings and unwind,” Shareef noted.
Newlyweds Mohammed Elshami and Aya Kamal, traveling from Sharjah to Cyprus, arrived at Terminal 1 at 9 AM for a flight initially scheduled for 12:40 PM, which was delayed to 2:30 PM. “With our flight delayed, we see this as an opportunity to extend our time at DXB T1. We are going on a vacation, and the delay has not bothered us much,” said Elshami.
Jamie Hassan, an Abu Dhabi resident, ensured he was prepared well in advance for his flight to Spain. “My flight is scheduled at 3:30 AM on Sunday. I plan to leave Abu Dhabi at 5 PM and reach Terminal 3 before 7:30 PM,” said Hassan.
Travel Tips for Peak Periods
To ensure a smooth journey during peak travel periods, consider the following tips:
- Check-in: Use home, early, self-check-in, and online services.
- Baggage: Know your baggage allowances and regulations. Weigh your luggage at home.
- Security: Save time by placing metal items in your hand luggage and following guidelines for liquids, aerosols, and gels.
- Smart Gates: Families with children over 12 can use smart gates for faster passport control.
- Travel Regulations: Stay updated with destination policies and have all necessary documents ready.
- Organise Documents: Prepare travel documents in advance.
- Pack Essentials: Carry spare batteries and power banks in your hand luggage.
- Farewells: Say goodbyes at home, as only ticketed passengers are allowed inside terminals during peak periods.
- Transport: Use the Metro to avoid road congestion and move between Terminals 1 and 3.
Travellers are advised to plan and prepare adequately to navigate the peak travel season efficiently.
